I really didn't want to start a thread like this but my head is spinning with all of the possibilities.
I am in the process of going back to vinyl and will need to construct a head amp and RIAA equilization. I will be using a MC cartridge, however, I am not sure if it will be high or low output. I had a low output Talisman S back in the day and would like to be at that quality level or better today.

What I need is some guidance on what headamp with RIAA equilization to build. I currently have a 12b4 preamp with my OPUS amplifiers into diy 90db sensitive speakers. I can build SS and Valve equipment but would like to minimize SMT as I have a hard time seeing enough to solder them. I can however if need be. I am considering the Ono, Pearl 2 as they are tried and tested. I am very open to other designs, particularly DIY ones as well as long as they have been built and tested. I do have sufficient equipment to test and trouble shoot both SS and Valves.

I do understand that this is a very subjective area but appreciate your opinions.

FYI, my old head amp was a CJ with nuvistors. It worked but could not be tuned very well.

Check out Simplistic NJFET RIAA. It sounds so lovely and is really clever. There's at least three different design for high/low output MM/MC stages. Massive thread.

As for tubes...never having built or heard one, so simply from a theory standpoint, I like Morgan Jones' designs, lots of ECC88. Don't know where to find his designs online, but his book Valve Amplifiers (I have the 2nd edition) is always a good read.

You will be shocked at how sensible and comprehensive this guy's approach is. Even Morgan would be proud.

Bud

I second that - just make sure you invest in a good input transformer if you plan to use a LOMC (low output MC). I'm learning all about that and what it means to finally have a top of the line TT.. (SME 20/2) I'm currently using vintage Partridge MC transformers, and find them rather nice in comparison to the UTC A-11, A-12, and Newcomb TR-91 none of which are bad with some tweaking.

Getting back into vinyl you might want to consider a good vintage belt drive TT and an SME 3009 Series I or II arm.. These will be quite happy with low compliance and fairly high mass MC cartridges. I recently acquired a Zu/Denon DL-103 which as SY will tell you does not have the lowest equivalent noise resistance, but subjectively is the quietest and most detailed cartridge I have owned in at least the last 10yrs.